Zelensky Advocates for NATO Membership to Conclude Active Conflict in Ukraine

President Zelensky asserts that NATO membership for territories under Ukrainian control could end the active phase of the war with Russia. He stresses that NATO’s invitation must cover all Ukrainian regions and that legally, Ukraine cannot recognize occupied territories as Russian. Amid ongoing military escalations, leadership changes in the Ukrainian military are also reported.

KYIV: President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that offering NATO membership to the territories controlled by Ukraine could signal the end of active hostilities in the ongoing war, but emphasized that such an invitation should encompass all Ukrainian regions within internationally recognized boundaries. Zelensky articulated that legally, Ukraine cannot acknowledge any occupied territories as belonging to Russia, thereby reinforcing the principle that an invitation to NATO must represent the entirety of Ukraine. He indicated that securing NATO’s protection over controlled territories is crucial to diplomatically reclaim the rest of the occupied land in the future. Zelensky’s comments followed NATO’s affirmation of Ukraine’s irreversible path to membership, though the exact demarcation of borders remains a significant hurdle. Amid a backdrop of continued military engagements, including drone attacks from both sides along the front lines, the Ukrainian administration is also making adjustments to its military leadership to enhance operational effectiveness.


Additionally, the outlook for Ukraine’s NATO accession is further complicated by the ambiguities surrounding the foreign policy directions of President-elect Donald Trump, particularly regarding his commitment to Ukraine amidst potential negotiations with Russia. Zelensky’s dynamic approach reflects a strategic push towards western integration while navigating the complexities of an ongoing conflict with Russia, as reinforced by military updates concerning recent territorial confrontations.

This article discusses the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and President Zelensky’s views on NATO membership as a possible resolution to the war’s active phase. It highlights the legal framework under which Ukraine operates regarding its territories, emphasizing non-recognition of areas occupied by Russia. NATO’s position on Ukraine’s membership and the implications of international relations under the incoming U.S. administration are also pivotal to understanding the challenges Ukraine faces.

In summary, President Zelensky underscores the necessity of NATO inclusion for the territories under Ukraine’s control as a mechanism to halt active fighting and facilitate diplomatic efforts to recover occupied land. His assertions highlight the legal constraints governing territorial recognition amidst the ongoing conflict, coupled with a critical examination of geopolitical dynamics involving the United States. The situation remains tense, with military adjustments being made to counter continued aggressions along the front lines.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com